Ipid to probe Hawks
THE Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) announced yesterday it would investigate allegations made against the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI).
This follows former deputy minister of Finance Mcebisi Jonas on Friday telling the Zondo Commission of Inquiry into state capture how the Hawks attempted to quash a case opened by DA public representatives into the Guptas after it was reported they tried to bribe him to take a ministerial post.
Ipid spokesperson Moses Dlamini said: “I confirmed with the relevant people. We are to investigate.”
Dlamini made the comments after the portfolio committee on police at the weekend called for urgent investigation of serious allegations against DPCI members by the relevant authorities.
Earlier, Dlamini said the office of DPCI judge, headed by retired Judge Frans Kgomo, was the most relevant body to probe complaints against members of the Hawks.
“If a matter is referred to us, we will consider it. At this stage we really don’t have facts,” Dlamini said.
“We will study what the Hawks are implicated in and
consider any referral. At this stage there is no referral,” he said.
Jonas said Major-General Zinhle Mnonopi had told him they wanted to “kill” the case, and had given him a prepared statement to sign.
Committee chairperson Francois Beukman said he noted with serious concern the allegations made about the Hawks at the Zondo Commission.
Beukman also said it was imperative that members of the DPCI should act without fear or favour to uphold the law, and that any dereliction of duty should be properly investigated.
He said any member of the public who could provide evidence of serious and unlawful infringement of his or her rights caused by an investigation of the DPCI could bring a complaint to the DPCI judge.
Beukman said while the committee acknowledged that the proceedings were still under way and testimony would still be subjected to cross-examination and findings made by the commission, any serious allegations against DPCI members should be urgently investigated by the relevant authorities.
“The DPCI should lead in the fight against corruption, and any allegations that comprise their role should be subject to independent investigation.”